Branding Methods
Choosing the right branding method is essential to achieving a professional finish for your custom apparel and merchandise.
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ADM Solutions offers a range of branding options including embroidery, screen printing, laser engraving and digital print. Each method is suited to different products and materials, and our team can recommend the best option based on your requirements.
Branding Methods
Branding Methods Explained
Embroidery
Embroidery is an excellent way of branding bags, apparel, and other textile products. It offers higher perceived value and a depth of branding quality which other processes cannot match. Embroidery uses rayon thread which is stitched into the product and has a slightly raised effect.
Advantages
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Only one setup charge applies per position for up to 12 thread colours
Limitations
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Only approximate PMS colour matches are possible - the threads to be used are chosen from those available to give the closest possible match
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Unable to print variable data such as individual naming
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Metallic embroidery colours have special pricing
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Minimum height for text if 5.5mm
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Screen Print
Screen Printing is achieved by forcing ink through a fine mesh screen with a squeegee onto the product and is ideal for branding flat objects.
Advantages
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Large print areas are possible on flat products
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Cost effective for larger runs of 200 shirts plus
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Close PMS matches are possible on white or light-coloured products
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Fluorescent, metallic gold and silver inks are available
Limitations
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Close PMS matches are more difficult on darker products and will only be approximate
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Unable to print variable data
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Each colour requires its own setup charge, so not ideal process for smaller production runs under 100
DTF Transfer
DTF or Direct to Film digital transfer process, used for branding apparel and fabrics.
Advantages
Vibrant, full-colour prints with excellent detail and gradient handling
• Soft hand feel that sits smoothly on fabric
• Highly durable and stretchable
• Works on a wide range of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, blends, and more
• Excellent wash resistance for long-lasting results
• Great for complex logos and fine details
• No weeding required
• Ideal choice for small production runs
Limitations
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Some colours cannot be reproduced including metallic and neon/fluorescent colours.
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Minimum detail advised at 1mm.
Laser Engrave
Laser engraving is a permanent branding process that engraves artwork into the surface of the product using a laser. Different materials produce different engraving finishes, to avoid uncertainty pre-production samples are recommended.
Advantages
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Higher perceived value than other forms of branding.
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The branding becomes part of the surface and is permanent.
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Large branding areas available on curved products.
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Variable data including individual names is available on select products.
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The product can be shipped straight away after being engraved.
Limitations
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Fine detail can be lost on smaller products like pens.
Pad Print
Pad printing uses a silicone pad to transfer an image to a product from a laser etched printing plate. It is one of the most popular and affordable ways of branding promotional products due to its ability to reproduce images on uneven or curved products and print multiple colours in a single pass.
Advantages
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Ideal for printing on curved or uneven products.
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Prints sharp, clean images with detail as fine as 0.4mm, minimum text size is 5pt.
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Close PMS matches are possible on white or light-coloured products.
Limitations
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Halftones cannot be consistently reproduced.
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Unable to print variable data
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Each colour requires its own setup charge.
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Neon/fluorescent colours are not available.
Sublimation
Sublimation is a printing transfer process which uses heat sensitive sublimation inks to permanently dye synthetic fabrics producing a bright, full colour, and crisp image.
What are the benefits of using Sublimation?
• Our sublimated range of towels can be decorated edge to edge giving you the maximum possible size for your logo or design.
• Sublimation dyes the fabric so the decoration becomes part of the product rather than an application.
• A simple, easy price structure with 1 setup regardless of logo colours.
• Vibrant colours with stunning detail.
• Low MOQ of 20 units.
Patch Branding Methods
SupaSub
Supasub is the solution for replicating full colour logos on hard to decorate products such as beanies, scarves, blankets, and jackets.
What are the benefits of using Supasub?
• Detail (finest of text, perfect gradient)
• High resolution
• Versatility – can be applied to bags, caps, beanies, scarves, and apparel
• Lightweight feel compared to solid embroidery
• Choose what colour thread for matching or contrast effect
SupaFlex
Supaflex involves printing highly detailed logos onto vinyl with either a matte or gloss finish and attaching them with embroidery for a quality, unique result.
Available in 2 options;
Floating Logo:
• 8 background colours -
• Textured, matte background
• Any design or detail
• Satin stitch embroidered edging
• Any shape
• Your choice of matte or floss finish
Edge to Edge Logo:
• Any design or detail
• Cross stitch embroidered edging
• Any shape
• Your choice of matte or floss finish
SupaEtch
Supaetch is a laser-etched suede patch sewn directly onto a wide range of products such as bags, blankets, caps, beanies, and scarves.
What are the benefits of using Supaetch?
• 11 different colour suedes available
• Versatility – Can be applied to bags, caps, blankets, beanies and scarves
• Choose what colour thread for a matching or contrast effect
• A subtle branding option with a high perceived value and retail look
Specialised Cap Branding
Available for minimum orders of 200 caps
4 to 6 week production lead times
3D Embroidery
3D Embroidery (also known as 3D Puff Embroidery) is a premium branding technique, unlike standard flat embroidery, this method uses a special foam underlay that is stitched over, causing the design to literally "pop" off the surface of the fabric.
Why Choose 3D Embroidery?
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Maximum Visual Impact: The raised texture catches light and creates shadows, making your logo or text impossible to miss from any angle.
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Premium "Retail" Look: This is the industry standard for professional sports teams and high-end streetwear brands, instantly elevating the perceived value of your merchandise.
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Extreme Durability: Despite its raised profile, 3D embroidery is incredibly resilient and maintains its bold shape through years of frequent wear and washing.
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For the best results, 3D embroidery works best with bold and simplified designs.
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Minimum order of 200 caps & 4 week delivery timelines apply
Silica Branding
Elevate your cap branding literally!
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A premium branding method used on baseball caps. It involves moulding liquid silicone to the exact shape of a logo, creating a 3D, raised, and flexible print
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Large range of colours available to match your branding.
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Fleuro colours available.
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4 - 6 week production lead times
Minimum order for this method is 200 caps.
Why Branding Method Matters
Professional Appearance
The right branding method ensures your logo looks clean, sharp and aligned with your brand standards.
Perceived Value
Branding method can impact greatly the perceived value from product to product. Matching your logo to the printing method is also a key element to consider.
Product Compatibility
Certain branding methods are better suited to specific materials such as fabric, metal or plastic.
Which Branding Method Should You Choose?
The best branding method depends on the product, material and desired finish.
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Embroidery is ideal for premium apparel, while screen printing works well for large designs and promotional clothing. Laser engraving is commonly used for metal products and executive gifts, offering a subtle and permanent finish.
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Our team can help recommend the most suitable method to ensure your branding looks professional and lasts over time.